Historical Fiction Explores the Lives of Two Women During the Early Days of the U.S.
Author and historian Marilyn Holdsworth debuts her new book, The Beautiful American

SAN MARINO, Calif. – In her new historical fiction novel The Beautiful American, Marilyn Holdsworth delivers readers a surprising tale about two women in the life a United States’ forefather, James Monroe.

When her antiques business starts gaining some success and momentum, Abby Long decides to treat herself to a new purchase. She finds a beautiful and elegant antique desk – a wonderful addition to her personal collection. What Abby doesn’t know is that beneath the intricately inlaid woods lies a secret compartment containing a long lost diary.

The tattered pages hold an amazing story that transports Abby’s imagination back to the early days of the United States and into the lives of two remarkable women. Elizabeth Kortright Monroe, the wife of the fourth president James Monroe, and Jasmine, a young slave girl, are from opposite backgrounds, but they somehow form an unforgettable bond while the country struggles to find its place in the world.

Holdsworth is both an historian and a descendant of James Monroe. She uses her knowledge of pivotal historic events, political intrigue of the time and personal details of the lives of major historical figures to ground the story in reality and draw connections between modern times and history.

Holdsworth promises readers – especially fans of historical fiction – an appealing love story with fascinating connections to American history.

About the Author
Marilyn Holdsworth graduated from Occidental College, where she majored in literature and history. She has traveled extensively in France and currently is a Huntington Library Fellow. Holdsworth is a descendant of James Monroe, has visited Monroe’s Virginia residence and has conducted research at the James Monroe Museum. She lives in Southern Calif.

Marilyn’s Books

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